Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associate Dean Dr. Jenn Stephenson,

I am reaching out to petition for your understanding and support regarding my academic standing for the Winter 2022 term. Specifically, I am seeking special consideration in extending three incomplete grades (POLS244, POLS212, POLS262) and requesting a waiver of the drop deadline for COMM221.

The Winter 2022 term was an anomaly in my undergraduate career, as evidenced by my transcript. Towards the end of that term, I encountered profound mental health challenges stemming from a painful breakup with my then-fiancé. This unexpected turn left me grappling with severe depression and enduring psychological distress. In the midst of this turmoil, I found myself isolated, with no one to turn to for support. Shame and embarrassment prevented me from reaching out to my family, while a lack of close friendships further exacerbated my sense of isolation.

The following weeks were characterized by a profound sense of despair, during which I experienced a complete breakdown of my self-image and identity. Social anxiety immobilized me, rendering even the simplest tasks impossible. I went into isolation, neglecting meals and human interaction, and struggled to muster the strength to attend classes/complete my finals. This period marked my first encounter with such catastrophic heartbreak, leaving me ill-equipped to cope with its repercussions. Regrettably, I was unaware of the resources available through Student Wellness Services and QSAS at the time, further limiting my avenues for support.

I made the decision to prioritize my mental health and well-being but at the expense of my academic pursuits. While I managed to complete one course (ECON280) with a C grade, it was because I believed it was the most achievable to pass at the time and gathered all of my willpower to submit a final assignment which felt easier than the rest during that period. I didn’t know options like academic petitions or extensions existed, so I felt like failing was my only choice and that I would simply have to take extra courses to make it up.

Afterward, I realized I needed help and kept trying to find it. Finally, I found a counsellor who really helped me. With her support, I started to heal and learn more about myself. I also used QSAS accommodations which helped support me in doing better in my classes when I needed it.

My decision to petition for an extension of these grades is borne out of necessity as it is my only chance at graduating and finishing up my degree. Following a consultation with my department’s undergraduate program assistant in the fall of 2023, I was under the impression that I required only three additional credits to fulfill my graduation requirements. Accordingly, I enrolled in the requisite courses during the Winter 2024 term and submitted my graduation application.

However, a recent email from the graduation team revealed a discrepancy, indicating a shortfall of 9.0 units, comprising 3.0 POLS credits and 6.0 electives. Realizing the gravity of the situation, I have reached out to my instructors from the Winter 2022 semester, all of whom have given me their support. I also have the support of Kyle Hanniman, the undergraduate chair of the department, who encouraged me to submit this petition. At the same time, I have initiated work on the outstanding assignments despite my petition not being guaranteed to get accepted because, in the chance that it will, and I am very hopeful, I will be prepared to submit the remaining work right away. I am very dedicated and committed to attaining my degree as this is my only hope. There are no POLS offerings this summer and I cannot afford to take on any more courses or stay for a 6th year as my financial situation is troubling and worsening.

With your support and understanding, I am confident in my ability to submit the requisite work as soon as I hear back from the petitions team as I have already completed most of it and continue to complete it until I hear back. Your decision holds the potential to fundamentally alter the trajectory of my academic journey and future, helping me to graduate this spring. I am afraid that if this last resort doesn’t work out, I will have to withdraw from my studies until I am in a better financial position. Although, I’m really hoping that won’t have to be the case.

I am aware of the gravity of my request and wish to assure you of my steadfast commitment to academic excellence and personal well-being as I continue to make use of counselling services.

In conclusion, I implore you to consider my petition with empathy and understanding, recognizing the transformative impact your decision can exert on my life. I am prepared to furnish any additional documentation or undertake further measures to support my case.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Warm regards,
Rukaiya Diwan